Ilie Bolojan Assumes Interim Presidency of Romania Amidst Political Shift

On February 12, 2025, Ilie Bolojan officially took over as the interim President of Romania following the resignation of Klaus Iohannis. This transition was facilitated by a Constitutional Court decision confirming the vacancy in the presidency and designating Bolojan as President of the Senate to assume interim duties until new presidential elections are held in May.

Klaus Iohannis announced his resignation on February 10 amid an impending parliamentary suspension vote that he believed could plunge Romania into a crisis. The Constitutional Court’s decision validated this move under Article 98 of the Romanian Constitution, which stipulates that if the presidency becomes vacant or the president is suspended from office or unable to perform duties, the President of the Senate (or Chamber of Deputies) assumes interim responsibilities.

As interim president, Ilie Bolojan will handle all presidential duties except addressing Parliament on major national issues, dissolving Parliament, and initiating referendums. He will oversee foreign policy and defence matters but must operate within these constitutional limitations.

Bolojan has stepped down as interim leader of the National Liberal Party (PNL), with Cătălin Predoiu likely to take over temporarily. Mircea Abrudean is expected to assume Bolojan’s responsibilities as Senate President during this period.

The handover ceremony between Iohannis and Bolojan took place at Cotroceni Palace on February 12. In his farewell message, Iohannis wished his successor well in managing Romania’s affairs. This transition marks a significant moment in Romanian politics as it navigates domestic challenges and international relations under new leadership until a permanent president is elected.

After the controversial annulment of the first round in November, presidential elections are scheduled for May 4 (first round), with a potential runoff on May 18. These elections aim to fill the permanent position left vacant by Iohannis’ resignation.